BUS users are happier with the punctuality and journey times of services in Essex, according to a national survey.

The Bus Passenger Survey, conducted by independent watchdog Transport Focus, showed a substantial rise in customer satisfaction with Essex bus users.

A total of 86 per cent of passengers said they were satisfied or very satisfied with their overall journey, 70 per cent said they were satisfied or very satisfied with punctuality, and 85 per cent said they were satisfied or very satisfied with journey time.

Cllr Eddie Johnson, responsible for highways and transport, said: “It is great to see bus users are enjoying faster and more reliable journeys across the county.

“It is not sustainable to continue the trend of ever growing numbers of cars on our roads and that is why it is pleasing to see bus operators offering residents a reliable alternative.

“There are more than 500 separate bus services on offer across Essex. Although the majority are run by private bus companies, the council works hard to ensure a joined up approach in the routes, timetables and ticketing on offer to Essex residents.”

The Bus Passenger Survey pulled in responses from 47,000 bus users across England and Scotland. In Essex, 793 bus passengers were surveyed between September and December last year.

For more information visit essexhighways.org/Getting-Around/bus.aspx.